The Erste Bank Ice Hockey League (EBEL) has to end the current season prematurely after three quarter-final match days. On the basis of the regulations announced on Tuesday and the measures announced by the Austrian federal government, which only allow indoor events to be held in front of empty seats, the league reacted late in the afternoon. With this approach, the EBEL complies with the measures and recommendations of the governments and competent authorities in the participating countries.
“March 10, 2020 is a sad day for clubs, players, match officials and above all the numerous fans of our Erste Bank Ice Hockey League. For months all stakeholders have been working intensively towards the season highlight, which we cannot experience now. However, we are currently experiencing an exceptional situation that affects many areas of our lives. Even if the decision hurts, we see it as our duty to make a contribution so that we can return to normal as quickly as possible, “said EBEL Managing Director Christian Feichtinger.
“The decision to cancel the championship was made jointly by the league presidium and those responsible for the club. A continuation of the championship in front of empty ranks would not have been an option for us, since our sport lives from emotions and the sensational mood in the arenas. We would like to thank all fans, partners, officials and clubs for their loyalty, sensational support and strong cohesion in these difficult times, ”continued Feichtinger.
Due to the premature termination, there is no master of the Erste Bank Ice Hockey League this season. In addition to Red Bull Salzburg and HC Bozen Südtirol, spusu Vienna Capitals qualified third in the pick-round for the Champions Hockey League (CHL).
–
–
